10 Best USB Hubs for Google TV: Expand Your Streaming Experience

You're ready to take your Google TV experience to the next level, but limited ports are holding you back. You need a reliable USB hub that can support multiple devices, high-speed charging, and seamless connectivity. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming. That's why we've narrowed it down to the top 10 USB hubs specifically designed for Google TV. From Microsoft's Surface Dock 2 to Anker's 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station, each hub offers unique features that cater to your specific needs. But which one is right for you?

Key Takeaways

• Look for USB hubs with multiple USB ports, ideally with high-speed USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt 3 connectivity for seamless device support.
• Consider hubs with HDMI or DisplayPort for connecting multiple monitors or displays to enhance your Google TV experience.
• Compact and lightweight designs are ideal for clutter-free streaming, while durable construction ensures longevity and reliability.
• Check for compatibility with Google TV and other devices, as well as operating system support for hassle-free connectivity.

Microsoft Surface Dock 2

For those seeking a reliable and feature-rich docking solution specifically designed for Microsoft Surface products, the Microsoft Surface Dock 2 is an ideal choice, offering seamless connectivity and device support.

With six USB ports, including two USB-C ports with 10 Gbps speed and video display enabled, this dock provides ample connectivity options for devices such as notebooks, desktop PCs, smartphones, monitors, keyboards, and mice.

Additionally, it features a wired connectivity technology, network RJ-45 port, and a headphone/microphone combo port, making it an all-encompassing docking solution.

The Microsoft Surface Dock 2 is compact, weighing only 1 pound, and measures 11.6 x 5.6 x 4.4 inches in size.

With a 1-year limited warranty and a 4.4-star rating from 347 customers, this dock is a popular choice among Microsoft Surface users.

Best For: Those seeking a reliable and feature-rich docking solution specifically designed for Microsoft Surface products.

Pros:

• Offers seamless connectivity and device support with six USB ports, including two USB-C ports with 10 Gbps speed and video display enabled.
• Compact and lightweight, weighing only 1 pound, and measures 11.6 x 5.6 x 4.4 inches in size.

Cons:

• Some users have reported difficulties with multiple monitors and sound output.
• A few users have experienced screen dimming issues and lack of helpful information online.

Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station for Laptops and MacBook

Expanding laptop and MacBook capabilities, the Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station offers a versatile solution for users seeking to enhance their multitasking experience with triple display connectivity and high-speed charging.

This docking station provides multiple connectivity options, including dual HDMI and DisplayPort, allowing users to connect up to three monitors for simultaneous use.

It also features high-speed charging capabilities, with up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones.

Additionally, the device offers fast file transfer with USB-C and USB-A ports, making it an ideal solution for those seeking to streamline their workflow.

With its compact design and 18-month warranty, the Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station is a reliable and efficient choice for users.

Best For: Professionals and individuals who need to connect multiple monitors and devices to their laptop or MacBook for enhanced multitasking and workflow efficiency.

Pros:

• Supports up to 3 monitors for multitasking with dual HDMI and DisplayPort connectivity
• Offers high-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones

Cons:

• Requires DisplayLink driver for independent display outputs on Macs
• Some users experience USB connection inconsistency and display resolution issues

HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter for Laptops

The HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter for Laptops stands out as an excellent choice for users seeking a universal and space-saving solution that supports up to three displays and offers advanced network manageability features.

This compact dock (5 x 5 inches) is designed for both HP and non-HP USB-C and Thunderbolt-enabled laptops, providing universal compatibility with USB-C functionality.

It supports charging, data transfers, and networking between devices, making it an ideal solution for streamlining your setup.

With its easy single-cable setup, you can reduce clutter and eliminate the need for extra cords and wires.

Additionally, the dock provides advanced network manageability features for secure and remote management, along with firmware updates pushed to the laptop for efficient updates.

Best For: Users seeking a universal and space-saving solution that supports up to three displays and offers advanced network manageability features.

Pros:

• Compact design with a small footprint (5 x 5 inches) to reduce clutter and eliminate the need for extra cords and wires
• Advanced network manageability features for secure and remote management

Cons:

• No specific details on maximum resolution or refresh rate supported for the three displays
• May not be compatible with older laptops that do not have USB-C or Thunderbolt ports

Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock with USB-A Adapter

With its robust array of ports, including two DisplayPort 1.2 and two HDMI ports, the Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock with USB-A Adapter is an ideal choice for professionals and multitaskers who require seamless connectivity for multiple 4K displays and devices.

This dock supports up to two 4K displays, making it perfect for those who need to multitask and increase productivity.

Additionally, it features a USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C port, three USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and two USB 2.0 Type-A ports, providing ample connectivity options for peripherals and accessories.

The dock also includes a 10/100/1000 Mb/s Ethernet port, ensuring a stable internet connection.

With a 4.5-star rating and over 161 customer reviews, this dock has proven to be a reliable and efficient solution for those seeking to expand their streaming experience.

Best For: Professionals and multitaskers who require seamless connectivity for multiple 4K displays and devices.

Pros:

• Supports up to two 4K displays, making it perfect for multitasking and increasing productivity
• Features a robust array of ports, including DisplayPort, HDMI, USB-A, and Ethernet ports

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with the monitor ports becoming non-functional after a few months
• Customer support can be difficult to communicate with, leading to frustration

TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station for MacBook Pro/Air

What sets the TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station apart is its versatility, boasting 18 powerful ports that cater to MacBook Pro and Air users seeking a thorough connectivity solution.

This docking station is compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, and full-featured USB-C laptops, supporting multiple operating systems including macOS, Windows, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android.

The TobenONE dock features triple/quad 4K extended display capabilities, allowing users to connect up to four monitors on Windows or three on macOS.

Additionally, it includes a powerful 120W power adapter for laptop and dock charging, reducing charging time.

With super-speed data transfer capabilities and multiple USB ports, this docking station simplifies cable management and supports connecting multiple devices simultaneously.

Best For: MacBook Pro and Air users seeking a thorough connectivity solution with multiple operating system compatibility.

Pros:

• Offers 18 powerful ports for versatile connectivity options
• Supports triple/quad 4K extended display capabilities and super-speed data transfer

Cons:

• Requires installation of DisplayLink Drivers for some operating systems
• May require additional power for some laptops when running multiple monitors

RVP+ 13-in-1 Docking Station for 3 Monitors

Ideal for users seeking a thorough docking solution, the RVP+ 13-in-1 Docking Station for 3 Monitors stands out with its ability to support triple display with 4K HDMI and DisplayPort, making it an excellent choice for those who require high-resolution multitasking capabilities.

This docking station features fast and powerful 100W laptop charging, effortless data transfer with USB-C 3.1 and USB 3.0, and stable Gigabit Ethernet for a wired Internet connection.

Measuring 4.73 x 4.73 x 1.46 inches and weighing 0.035 ounces, this compact and lightweight device is widely compatible with various devices and operating systems.

With a 4.3-star rating based on 121 customer reviews, users have praised its high-speed network performance, reliable customer service, and compact design with multiple functioning ports.

Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station (13-in-1)

Those seeking a versatile and all-encompassing USB-C docking station that can simultaneously charge their laptop and phone while supporting up to three monitors will find the Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station (13-in-1) an excellent choice.

This docking station offers huge expansion with multiple ports and slots, making it an ideal solution for desktop use.

Users have reported positive feedback on the build quality and performance, with compatibility across different devices and operating systems.

The Anker 575 also excels with regard to display information, supporting up to three monitors with varying resolutions and refresh rates.

With its extensive media display capabilities and simultaneous charging, this docking station is a top pick for those looking to elevate their streaming experience.

Best For: Those who need a versatile and all-encompassing USB-C docking station for desktop use, requiring simultaneous charging of laptop and phone, and support for up to three monitors.

Pros:

• Offers huge expansion with multiple ports and slots, making it an ideal solution for desktop use
• Supports up to three monitors with varying resolutions and refresh rates, providing an elevated streaming experience

Cons:

• May cause confusion with USB-C formats and PD support for some users
• Has some limitations with display resolution and refresh rate

OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock

For professionals and creatives seeking a reliable multi-connectivity solution, the OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock stands out as a top choice, offering 96W charging, 8K display support, and seamless compatibility with M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices.

This dock boasts an impressive range of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input/Output, ensuring that users can connect multiple devices with ease.

With its ability to support up to 8K @ 60Hz or 4K @ 120Hz displays, this dock is perfect for those who require high-resolution visuals.

Additionally, its 96W power delivery and 15W external device charging capabilities make it an ideal solution for users who need to keep their devices powered throughout the day.

Best For: Professionals and creatives seeking a reliable multi-connectivity solution for their M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices.

Pros:

• Offers 96W charging and 15W external device charging capabilities, making it an ideal solution for users who need to keep their devices powered throughout the day.
• Supports up to 8K @ 60Hz or 4K @ 120Hz displays, making it perfect for those who require high-resolution visuals.

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with fullscreen video playback on external monitors.
• The placement of the charging port may be inconvenient for some users.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

What sets the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock apart as a top contender for Google TV users is its unparalleled 18 ports of extreme connectivity, offering a level of versatility that's hard to find in other USB hubs.

This dock provides powerful 98W charging, supports single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays, and features 2.5 gigabit Ethernet connectivity.

With its universal compatibility with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices, it seamlessly integrates with Apple M2, M1, M1 Pro, M1 Max, M1 Ultra, Intel-based Macs, Windows PCs, and Chrome OS devices.

While some users have reported minor issues with the dock running warm and network connectivity, the overall feedback is overwhelmingly positive, making it a valuable addition to any Google TV setup.

Best For: Professionals and individuals who need a high-performance docking solution with extensive connectivity options and universal compatibility.

Pros:

• Offers an unparalleled 18 ports of extreme connectivity, providing a high level of versatility
• Provides powerful 98W charging and supports single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays

Cons:

• Some users have reported minor issues with the dock running warm
• There have been reports of network connectivity issues in some cases

USB C Docking Station for MacBook Pro/Air

If you're a MacBook Pro or Air user seeking a seamless and efficient way to expand your laptop's capabilities, this USB C Docking Station is an ideal choice.

This 15-in-2 expansion station offers a range of features that cater to your needs.

It supports dual 4K monitors at 60Hz or 30Hz, four USB 3.0 ports, one USB-C port, and two USB 2.0 ports, ensuring super-speed data transmission.

Additionally, it features a strong power delivery USB C PD 3.0 port that supports up to 100W power input and 87W charging for your MacBook.

The compact and minimalist design eliminates the need for multiple cables and adapters, making it a convenient and reliable solution for MacBook users.

Best For: MacBook Pro and Air users seeking a seamless and efficient way to expand their laptop's capabilities with a reliable and compact docking station.

Pros:

• Supports dual 4K monitors at 60Hz or 30Hz with super-speed data transmission
• Offers a range of ports, including four USB 3.0, one USB-C, two USB 2.0, and more, for maximum connectivity

Cons:

• Minor malfunction experienced after a year of usage
• Headphone jack requires manual selection in System Preferences

Factors to Consider When Choosing USB Hubs for Google TV

When shopping for a USB hub for your Google TV, you'll want to ponder a few key factors to guarantee you get the right one.

You'll need to think about the hub's design, power delivery capacity, and ability to support multiple devices at once.

Compact Design Matters

You'll want to prioritize a compact design when selecting a USB hub for your Google TV, as it will enable a clutter-free entertainment setup and easy placement near the TV.

Before making a purchase, measure the available space around your Google TV device to determine the ideal size of the USB hub. Compact USB hubs are perfect for use with Google TV devices that have limited space around them, with a smaller footprint that won't take up too much room.

A compact design also enables easy portability, making it convenient to take the USB hub and Google TV device to different rooms or locations.

When choosing a compact USB hub, consider the number of ports you need and the overall size of the device to guarantee it fits comfortably near the Google TV. You don't want a bulky hub getting in the way of your streaming experience.

Power Delivery Capacity

As you shop for a USB hub for your Google TV, its power delivery capacity becomes a critical factor to weigh, since it directly impacts the hub's ability to charge your devices efficiently while transferring data.

You'll want to ponder the power requirements of your devices, as some may need higher wattage to function properly. For instance, laptops may require up to 87W for charging.

Look for a hub that can deliver the necessary power to meet your devices' needs. Some USB hubs have multiple ports with different power delivery capacities, such as a dedicated PD port for higher-power devices and standard USB ports for lower-power devices.

Make sure to check the specifications of a USB hub to verify it can meet the power requirements of your devices. Inadequate power delivery can result in slow charging or malfunctioning devices.

With the latest Power Delivery (PD) specification, some hubs can deliver up to 100W of power, while older specifications like PD 2.0 and BC 1.2 have lower power limits. Choose a hub that can handle your devices' power needs, and you'll enjoy a seamless streaming experience.

Multi-Device Support

With multiple devices vying for connectivity, a Google TV USB hub that can support at least four to five devices simultaneously is essential for an uninterrupted viewing experience.

You'll want to connect your keyboards, mice, game controllers, and external hard drives without worrying about dropped connections or slow data transfer. Look for a hub that can handle a total bandwidth of 480 Mbps or higher to guarantee smooth performance.

A powered USB hub is recommended to provide additional power to connected devices, especially if you plan to connect power-hungry devices like external hard drives or game controllers.

Some hubs may even offer device prioritization, allowing you to allocate bandwidth to specific devices, such as a keyboard or mouse, to guarantee uninterrupted performance.

When choosing a USB hub, consider the type of devices you plan to connect and their power requirements.

Think about the devices you'll be using most frequently and confirm the hub can support your needs.

Speed and Data Transfer

When selecting a USB hub for your Google TV, it's crucial to prioritize speed and data transfer rates to guarantee seamless video streaming and peak performance from your connected devices.

You'll want a hub that can handle bandwidth-intensive tasks like 4K video playback, which requires a minimum data transfer rate of 10 Gbps.

Look for USB hubs that support high-speed data transfer rates, such as USB 3.2 Gen 2, which can reach speeds of up to 20 Gbps.

The number of devices connected to the hub can impact data transfer speeds, so consider hubs with individual port power management to confirm each device receives sufficient bandwidth.

Additionally, hubs with built-in chipsets like the VL817 or GL3520 can provide faster data transfer rates and improved performance compared to hubs that rely on the host device's chipset.

Consider the specific requirements of your devices, such as the data transfer rate needed for external hard drives or gaming controllers, to guarantee ideal performance.

Compatibility With Google TV

You'll need to certify the USB hub is compatible with your Google TV, which means considering a few key factors that guarantee seamless integration and peak performance.

First, verify the hub has the right ports to connect to your Google TV – usually USB or HDMI. The hub should also support the Android TV operating system, so it can recognize and work with connected devices.

Another vital factor is power output. Google TV's USB port typically supplies power to connected devices, so the hub should be able to handle the power output without overloading the system.

You'll also want to verify the hub can handle the data transfer speeds required by Google TV, usually USB 2.0 or USB 3.0.

Port Configuration Options

A key aspect to focus on is the port configuration of the USB hub, as it directly impacts the convenience and functionality of your connected devices. You'll want a hub with enough ports to accommodate all your devices – at least 3-4 USB ports are recommended. The type of ports is also vital; verify they match the types of devices you'll be connecting, such as USB-A, USB-C, or HDMI.

You should also consider the power requirements of your devices. A hub that can supply power to devices is more convenient, so look for one that can handle the power needs of your peripherals. Some hubs have dedicated ports for specific devices, like a dedicated charging port or a port for a keyboard or mouse, which can be useful.

The physical design of the hub is also important. Its size and shape should fit comfortably with your Google TV setup, without obstructing other devices or connections. By considering these factors, you'll find a USB hub that seamlessly integrates with your Google TV and enhances your streaming experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a USB Hub With an Older Google TV Model?

You're wondering if you can use a USB hub with an older Google TV model. Yes, you can! Most older Google TV models support USB hubs, but verify the hub is compatible and doesn't require a power adapter.

Are USB Hubs Compatible With Android TV Devices?

You're wondering if USB hubs are compatible with Android TV devices. The answer is yes, they are! Most Android TVs support USB hubs, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and connect more peripherals.

Do USB Hubs Support 4K Resolution at 60hz?

You're wondering if USB hubs can handle 4K resolution at 60Hz. The answer is, it depends on the hub's specifications. If it supports HDMI 2.0 or DisplayPort 1.4, you're good to go; otherwise, it might not support 4K at 60Hz.

Can I Daisy-Chain Multiple USB Hubs Together?

You're wondering if you can connect multiple USB hubs together, right? Yes, you can daisy-chain hubs, but be aware that it may reduce data transfer speeds and power delivery, so plan carefully to avoid connectivity issues.

Do USB Hubs Require a Power Adapter for Operation?

You're wondering if USB hubs need a power adapter to work? Well, some do, but bus-powered hubs don't; they draw power from the connected device, while self-powered hubs require an external